Overbeck’s Garden

Tucked away on the cliffs above Salcombe is this hidden paradise. A subtropical garden, bursting with colour, filled with exotic and rare plants and surprises around every corner. The views from the garden over the estuary and coast are truly breathtaking.

From family home to hospital, Overbeck’s has a varied history as it passed through different families. Originally called Sharpitor, the house and garden was gifted to the National Trust by inventor Otto Overbeck.

The garden is a 20th century creation. Edric Hopkins, the first owner, laid out much of the garden structure. After being sold to G.M. Vereker in 1913, he and his wife, who were keen gardeners, extended the garden to its present size. In 1928 the property was sold to Otto Overbeck, who continued to add rare and tender plants to an already unusual garden.

Often considered to be more reminiscent of the tropics than Devon, plants from around the globe can be found thriving in this microclimate including magnolias, Japanese maples, banana plants, olive trees, succulents and palms. Features include the Banana Garden, the Olive Grove and the temperate Woodland Garden.

Take in the surrounding countryside with views across to Mill Bay and along the coast and stunning scenic coastal walks around East Soar.